Gonzalo Bustamente Launches New Design Studio, GBDW

Veteran hospitality designer creates new multi-disciplinary studio.

Veteran hospitality designer creates new multi-disciplinary studio.

NEW YORK -- Gonzalo Bustamante has launched Gonzalo Bustamante Design Works (GBDW), a new multi-disciplinary design studio. The Manhattan-based firm will offer a wide range of visionary, yet practical design solutions for hospitality and beyond. For GBDW, Bustamante has assembled a team of top creative talent including architects, graphic and interior designers to develop highly conceptual, innovative environments and experiential designs. GBDW’s core design principles and inspiration are rooted in the natural world, fashion, music and art. With each project the studio seeks to evoke emotionally powerful story telling, an immersive experience, and a unique sense of craft and wonder.

According to Bustamante, "I'm really excited to launch the next chapter in my career. Developing GBDW has given me the opportunity to take a look at my profession with a fresh perspective. I am looking forward to developing our work in other markets and also broadening our portfolio beyond interior architecture to branding and product design."

GBDW is focused on a number of new initiatives including a restaurant in the South Street Seaport of New York City, a neighborhood that is still working to get fully back on its feet after Hurricane Sandy. In addition, GBDW has designed Corcho, a new series of decorative laminates inspired by cork for Montreal-based manufacturer Arborite, which launched at NeoCon as part of the company's innovative INK Collection.

Bustamante, a Pratt Institute alum and active board member for FIT's Student Advisory Board, is best known for his recent work with Vincent Celano at Seed Design Studio. Their recent projects include Heraea at the Palms Resort in Las Vegas, Bulla Restaurant in Coral Gables, Fla, and Little Market Brasserie by Mercadito Hospitality in Chicago, in addition to their award winning projects such as LIV Nightclub at Miami Beach’s Fontainebleau Hotel, chef Jose Andres' China Poblano in Las Vegas’ Cosmopolitan Hotel, and Public House at The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas.